The bill amends Iowa's education laws to enhance the social studies curriculum for students in grades one through twelve. It requires the curriculum to cover essential topics such as the workings of government at various levels, the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and the history of liberty in western civilization. Specific historical documents, including the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, as well as notable figures like Abraham Lincoln, must be included to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of American history and civic principles. Additionally, students in grades five and six will study significant historical documents, and the curriculum will mandate at least one semester of civics instruction focused on the founding documents and principles of republican government.

The bill introduces substantial changes to educational standards, including the requirement for two comprehensive units of United States history that span from the Mayflower landing to the present day. It emphasizes teaching history as factual and knowable, incorporating primary source documents, and highlights contributions from notable Americans and significant historical events. Furthermore, it prohibits higher education institutions from awarding credit for courses involving action civics or political activism, ensures that implementation costs are covered by state school foundation aid, and clarifies that these changes will not affect current high school graduation requirements. Lastly, it prohibits the Department of Education from using previously adopted draft social studies standards for educational purposes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 256.11, 280.9A
Reprinted: 256.11, 280.9A